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Thursday, May 21, 2020

Beach Cove Overlook - Fix It Friday #12

Beach Cove Overlook, 18 x 36, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2020
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Today, I am re-sharing a "fix" I made a few years ago... 
After enlarging a plein air piece I painted in California, I immediately saw problems that had not surfaced in the smaller study. Sometimes that happens when going from small to large. 

Here's what happened next...


BEFORE

AFTER

CHANGES:
Problem 1 - The main subject was unapproachable (grass and foliage in the way).
Fix 1 - Added a pathway that leads to the main subject and focal point. 

Problem 2 - The cove was too circular and dominant.
Fix 1 - Pushed it back by making the shape of cove and waves more elliptical.
Fix 2 - Increased the mass and height of grasses on the bluff to visually overlap the cove (which also helps to subdue it and push it back). 

OBSERVATIONS:
This had the classic battle of different elements fighting for the spotlight. Background was trying to come forward, and the subject was a bit buried. By clarifying a hierarchy of elements, the tension lifted and the whole scene was able to settle into place.

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #11

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